Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 787, Abraham Fairchild, New Jersey

SERVICE
NUMBER
New Jersey
Fairchild, Abraham Phebe
W 787
CONTENTS

let to L. Comair June 14 1843
9005 New Jersey
Abraham Fairchild
Hanover in the State of N. J. who was a Pri. — in the Com commanded by Captain Seeley of the Regt commanded by M j . Doughty in the Arty Btry for Corporal Sergt of Artillery and adjutant
Inscribed on the Roll of N. J. at the rate of 118 Dollars 80 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 16 th day of March 1833 and Rent for S. Condit, Morristown
Arrears to the 4th of March: 1832 $237 79 3/4 Semi-ant. allowance ending 1 st Sep. 1832 59 41 3/4 $297 15
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by E. D. Dillack Clerk, Book E Vol. 3 Page 111

Abraham Fairchild
No 4.627
23 mo. artillery service Sergeant
17 - Mar
private corporal serg artillery and adjudant 5 weeks agp
rest of service Sergeant
$118.86
Hon S Gould Newtown N.H.

DECLARATION, IN ORDER TO OBTAIN THE BENEFIT OF THE ACT OF CONGRESS, PASSED JUNE 7, 1832.
STATE OF NEW-JERSEY, } ss. Knows Com. Pleas, August Special Term, 1832.
County of Morris
On this eleventh day of August 1832 personally appeared, in open court, before the Judges of the court of Common Pleas now sitting Abraham Fairchild a resident of Haver County of Morris and State of New-Jersey, aged seventy two eight years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress, passed June 7, 1832. That he entered the service of the United States, under the following named Officers, and served as herein stated:
That in February or March 1776 he entered the troops raised by the State of New Jersey, he believes at Chatham, in a Company, commanded by Capt. Sylvanus Seely, and Major John Doughty. Doughty was called and ranked as Major that the Militia should not be placed under the command of other officers in New York as was said. This deponent entered as a Volunteer, and the Regiment was marched to New York City to protect it from the British. The British Fleet of War Ships was then lying in the Lower Bay. That at the expiration of their months' tour in N. York Major Doughty received a letter from the Officer in command at Amboy, requesting him to come to that place to hold that Fort, as the term of service of his men had expired, and they could not be persuaded to remain any longer. That Major Doughty with part of his Battalion including Capt. Seely, and this deponent went to Amboy & held that Fort for two weeks was then verbally discharged (see Mr. Vail's affidavit annexed)
That in the month of April as a Volunteer he enlisted as Corporal for one year in a Company of Artillery, raised by the State he believes and commanded by Captain Daniel Neil and John Doughty second Captain or Captain Lieutenant as he was called. Thomas and Aaron Clark were the Lieutenants. The Company first went to Amboy and remained there till the British fleet came in, when they went to E. Town, where the Company was divided, one half going to Newark, and the other half with this deponent remaining at Elizabeth Town until the British came through, when they retreated with the Army under Washington to N. Brunswick, when the Company was again divided, and a part of the Company with Aaron Clark, the junior officer, and two of their pieces of Artillery was ordered to Morristown through Boundbrook, Pluckemin & Scituate. This deponent with his portion of the Company went to Chatham & Springfield and were employed through the country in the vicinity on guard duty, until General Washington came to Morristown, when they were sent to Westfield where they were stationed and remained until March or April, when this deponent was sent home to be inoculated for the Small Pox, with the rest of the troops, though still considered as in the service - while this deponent was sick with the Small Pox his term of enlistment expired, received no written discharge - This deponent remembers that two or three times during this year, in the summer and fall this Company was engaged in firing upon the British on Staten Island, from E. Town Point. For the last 8 months this deponent was Sergeant of his Company, did the duty of Sergeant and thinks that he received Sergeants pay.

13 1/2 60 1/2
1st In the summer of '77 under Capt. Obadiah Hitchcock and he believes Colonel Drake, he was stationed one month at E. Town on Guard duty protecting the country from being plundered by the enemy. The weather was warm.
2nd In '78 the Fall of the year probably, November, he was stationed and did duty as Adjutant, under Colonel Seely, for 5 weeks at E. Town, on Guard duty as before -
Upon three alarms at different times, the dates he has forgotten, this deponent was called out, once he followed the British to Bergen; when there was some skirmishing and some men killed, near Newark; a second time followed them to Second River, where this deponent commanded a piece of Artillery and cannonaded the British for an hour or more, and a third time upon the same route when they crossed the Passaic Hackensack River and went to Hackensack near which there was some skirmishing - upon these three occasions he was out at least one month.
About the period of the Monmouth battle, he was out, went first to E. Town then to N. Brunswick, where he was on the day of the Monmouth battle, then returned to E. Town, was upon Guard duty, he supposes that they left E. Town to join the Army at Monmouth, but a few miles beyond N. Brunswick turned about and returned to E. Town, he heard distinctly the firing at Monmouth - was out at this time two weeks or more.
Again when Connecticut Farms was burnt he was out and was engaged in a number of severe skirmishes between that place and Springfield - and again at the time of the burning of Springfield he was present when the Church and all the houses in the village except three were burnt - the enemy were on their retreat when he reached them - Captain Obadiah Hitchcock always commanding upon these occasions. There was another occasion upon which he crossed over under Gen. Dickinson to Staten Island in the New Guard under Col. Seely, and was in a very severe skirmish with the English, when one of his neighbors David Tuttle was wounded in the thigh and several were killed on both sides - Upon another occasion when Gen. Stirling crossed upon the ice from E. Town Point to Staten Island, this deponent was engaged in a skirmish near a Fort, to take which he supposes was their object. Though they did not succeed - And in these several alarms he was out at least 1 month.
In April of the year '80 he thinks, this deponent hired a Substitute William Garet for the term of five or six months, furnishing all his accoutrements and giving him extra pay. His Substitute served till November at Hackensack and was engaged in an attempt to take a Block house near Fort Lee that was occupied by some Refugees.
23rd From the year 1776 to the close of the War in '83, this deponent volunteered upon every alarm, and believes that he never remained at home when there was any need of his services. That he was more than six months in camp and on alarm which he remembers particularly, that for six months he paid a Substitute beside his 12 months service in the Regular Army - in all a period of 2 years or more.
40th This deponent was born in Hanover, Morris County, N. Jersey where he has always resided. He never received a Commission, nor a written discharge.
He was born on the 2nd of November 1753 though his family record is lost.
For testimony to his character for veracity he refers to Lewis Bondict & Cornelius Voorhies, Esqrs. who have known him for many years, & also in regard to the general belief of his services as a soldier of the revolution. He never recd. a written discharge nor a commission. The Officers under whom he served, have been herein before named.

He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the Agency of any State, is only on that of the Agency of the State of New Jersey.
Sworn to, and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid.
Stephen Vail
Abraham Fairchild
We, Lewis Conditt & Cornelius Voorhies Esqrs. residing in the County of Morris hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with Abraham Fairchild, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that we believe him to be sixty eight years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid.
Stephen Vail
Lewis Conditt
Cornelius Voorhies
And the said court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the court further certifies, that it appears to them, that Lewis Conditt
who has signed the preceding certificate, is a resident in the Township of Hanover in the County aforesaid, and that Cornelius Voorhies who has also signed the same, is a resident in the Township of Hanover in the County aforesaid and are credible persons, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Stephen Vail
I David Day Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Abraham Fairchild for a pension.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this Eleventh day of August in the year of our lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two
David Day
I certify to the Secretary of War, that Abraham Fairchild Esqrs. the above Declarant is well known to me personally, as a valuable & respected citizen of this County, fully entitled to confident belief. Morris town, N. Jersey, August 14 th 1832.
Lewis Conditt one of the Representatives from N. Jersey

State of New Jersey Morris County ss
Personally appeared before me Moses Beach one of the justices of the peace in and for said County.
Aaron Condit a minister of the gospel residing in Han- -over in the County and State aforesaid, and Daniel Hopping residing in the same who certified and said we have been long well acquainted with Abraham Fairchild who makes, at this time, a declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7. 1832 We believe said declaration to be true - We believe him to be, as he states, in the seventy ninth year of his age We have known him, ever since our acquaintance with him, to be of good & respectable standing in the neighbour- hood where he resides, & that he has been for many years a member of the Church of Christ in Hanover aforesaid, in good & regular standing - That he is respected and be- -lieved, in the neighbourhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and are concur in that opinion - and further these deponents say not -
Sworn and Subscribed before me this 30 th day of July 1832
Aaron Condit
Danl Hopping
Moses Beach Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify to the Hon ble Secy of War, that the Rev. Aaron Condit who has submitted the above deposition is well known to me, as an aged & worthy minister of the Gospel in Hanover, & that Daniel Hopping Esq r is a respectable member of that congregation, & a Judge of the Court of Com. Pleas of Morris County N. Jersey, & that full confidence & credence are due to the statements of both. Morristown, August 10 th 1832.
Louis Condict , one of the Representatives from N. Jersey.

New Jersey 4257
Phoebe Fairchild widow of Abraham Fairchild
who died on the 4 th July 1843 of Morris in the State of New Jersey who was a Serjt & Riv in the commanded by Captain Seely of the Regt commanded by Major Doughty in the New Jersey Time for 2 years
Inscribed on the Roll of New Jersey at the rate of 100 Dollars Con. per annum, to commence on the 4 th day July 1843
Certificate of Pension issued the 2 day of August 1845 and sent to Doc t . Levi Cindict , Murny Tenn. N.Y.
Arrears to the 4 th of March last. 166.66 Semi-annual allowance ending -
166.66
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the 3 rd Sec. }
Recorded, by Gro C. Ames Clerk, Book 6 Vol. 1 Page 140

Reprinted Aug 16
let to Dr. L. Conditt
Dec 8th '46
Dec. 31. 46. Jany 13. 1847.
same Feb 11/47. Hon. J. W.
Miles Feb 18 '47

Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the 3 d . section of the act of Congress of the 2 d . July 1836, & joint resolution of July 7 th 1838. State of New Jersey, Morris County ss: On this 29 th . day of September Anno Domini 1843, personally appeared before the Court of Common Pleas of said County, Phebe Fairchild, a resident of Chatham township in the County of Morris & State of New Jersey, aged 86 years, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 4 th . 1836, & the joint resolution of July 7, 1838: viz: - I am the widow of Abraham Fairchild, who was a private & a subaltern officer of Artillery in Capt. Neil's, afterward Capt. Doughty's c o . of Artillery, & an Adjutant, in the Army of the Revolution, as I understand & believe. He, my said husband was a pensioner of the United States under the Law of June 1832, at the rate of $118.86 cents, which was rec d . by him during his life time. I cannot specify his various services during the war of the revolution, most of which were performed before we were married. I respectfully refer the Com- missioner of Pensions & the Secretary of War, to his original Declaration & the testimonials which accompany it, for the particular history & details of his services.
I was married to the said Abraham Fairchild, in May  April 1780, the precise day of the month, I do not now recollect. The battles of Connecticut Farms, & of Springfield, took place in May & in June, of the same year of our marriage. The burning of those towns by the enemy, & the murder of Mrs. Caldwell by them at the same time, made a deep impression on my mind. My husband was called out in both those occasions, & was present in those actions. I heard the firing of cannon very distinctly, & the smoke of the burning towns was seen plainly where we lived, near Hanover Church, where my husband father then lived, on his father's farm - his father having died just before. Many inhabitants near Springfield fled for safety to our neighborhood being driven out by the enemy. I remember also that my said husband was called out into the public service, to perform Military duty on the occasion of the revolt of the Pennsylvania troops, which I believe occurred the next spring after our marriage. This revolt

occasioned great alarm & a deep interest throughout the country, it being stated, that the troops had risen against their officers, threatened the lives of all who would not join them, & were on their march to join the enemy. My husband, with all his Whig neighbours marched off to aid in quelling the insurrection.
How long a time he was employed in the performance of these military duties at Connecticut farms - at Springfield in 1780, & in the victory of the Pennsylvanians in 1781, I cannot tell with any accuracy; but certainly not less than one month.
I was married to said Abraham Fairchild in May  April 1780, by Rev. Jacob Green, then minister of the Presbyterian Church in Hanover, where we lived, & in which Township we spent the rest of our lives till the death of my husband, which occurred on the 4 th day of July last, viz: 1843, & I remain his widow to this day, as will more fully appear by reference to proof hints annexed. Since his death, I have made my home with one of my married daughters in Chatham township, Morris County. I swear to & subscribed, on the day & year above written.
Before _____ The word "April", the month stated above as the month of the marriage of Abraham Fairchild & Phoebe his wife, was erased, & "May" substituted, before signing & swearing.
Phoebe to her Fairchild mark
Edward Beers, clerk judge of the court of common pleas for the County of Morris

State of New Jersey Morris County ss.
I, Calvin Green, of Hanover in said County do hereby declare, that I am in the 79 th year of my age, am the son of Reverend Jacob Green, Pastor of the Presbyterian Church & Congregation in Hanover aforesaid for a period of about 50 years, including the war of the rebellion, & who died on the 24 th May 1890. During the period of my Father's ministry in said Congregation, he kept a Register of the Marriages solemnized before him, which is now in my possession & keeping, & has been since his death, except a short time when it was entrusted by me to Rev. Aaron Condict, our late Pastor. The said Register is in the proper hand writing of my said Father, commencing in the year of our Lord 1746, & closing in the year 1790; the last marriage therein recorded by him, bearing date March 31, 1790. — On examining said Register, it appears that Abraham Fairchild was married to Phebe Russell, on the 18 th eighteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, seven hundred and eighty. Said marriage is recorded therein, in fair & legible character — in letters & figures as follows, viz: "May 18 1780. Abrm. Fairchild & Phebe Russell".
I, Calvin Green, above named, the keeper of said Register, depose & say, that the above, is a true extract therefrom. Sworn & subscribed at Hanover, on the
22 nd day of September, 1843, before Silas L. Condict J.P.
Calvin Green
I, Silas L. Condict, one of the Justices of the peace in & for the County of Morris aforesaid, hereby certify, that Calvin Green, who has this day made oath in due form of law before me, that the facts above stated are true, & has subscribed his name thereto, is a man of exemplary character & unquestioned veracity, & is known by me to be in possession of said Register of Marriages, from which the above copy has been taken in my presence, & is correctly & truly copied.
Sept r 22 nd 1843.
Silas L. Condict J.P.

New Jersey. 4254.
Phebe Fairchild, dec d .
widow of
Abraham Fairchild, who died on the 4 th July 1843 of Morris Co. in the State of N. Jersey who was a Pri. Cn. Ser t adja the Co. commanded by Captain Sully of the Reg commanded by Maj. Doughty in the N. Jersey line for 10 mo. Recd. Pri: 4 mo. Cnpl 8 mo. Sergt 1. 16 ds. adja.
Inscribed on the Roll of Trenton at the rate of 113 Dollars 22 Cts per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843 July 1843 to 24 Nov. 1846, when she died.
Certificate of Pension issued the 17 th day of March 1847. and sent to Dr. S. Condict, Morris town, N.J.
Arrears to the 4th of Semi-annual allowance ending
Payable to Inc d from 100. $ Children.
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the 3 rd }
Recorded by S.A. Wood Clerk, Book C Vol. 1 Page 140

Payable to John, Solomon & Ezra Fairchild, Matilda Sayre, Electa King, & Amelia Shafer, only children.
Rep d
letter to Dr Lewis Gendell
Apr 10 th 1847.
✓ , Ras Apr 22/51

State of New Jersey Morris County ss:
I, William N. Wood, Clerk of the Orphan's Court & Surrogate of the County of Morris, do hereby certify, that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to prove, that Phebe Fairchild was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of Twenty Dollars per annum: was a resident of the County of Morris in the State of New Jersey, & died in the township of Hanover, in the County of Morris, in the State of New Jersey, in the year 1846, on the 24 th day of November: that she left six children, & no more, 3 sons, & 3 daughters - viz: John - living in Morris County N. Jersey - Solomon living in Morris County N. Jersey, & Ezra, living as is supposed, at Plattville in Wisconsin. The daughters, are, Matilda, wife of William Vayn, Electa, wife of Robert King, & Amelia, wife of Peter B. Shafer; all of the State of New Jersey - Matilda & Amelia, both residing in Morris County, & Electa, in Peapair County.
In testimony whereof, I hereunto subscribe my name, & affix my seal of office, at the Surrogate's Office in Morris Town This 14 th day of January, A.D. 1847.
William N. Wood Surrogate,

Surrogate Seal
I. William N. Wood Surrogate of the County of Morris do certify the foregoing to be a true copy of the last will and testament of Phoebe Fairchild late of the County of Morris deceased and that William Sayre the Executor therein named proved the same before me and is duly authorized to take upon himself the Administration of the Estate of the Testatrix agreeably to the said Will.
Witness my hand and seal of office the fifteenth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight- Hundred and forty Six - William N. Wood
State of New Jersey Morris County p:
I. William N. Wood Surrogate of the County of Morris do certify the above to be a true copy of the Letter Testamentary granted to William Sayre the Executor of Phoebe Fairchild late of the County
of Morris deceased as remains of record in my office - Witness my hand and seal of office the 15 th day of January A.D. 1847 William N. Wood

POWER OF ATTORNEY:—Revolutionary Pension Claim.
Know all Men by these Presents, that I, John Fairchild of Hanover Morris county New Jersey
do hereby constitute and appoint Daniel D. Addison of Washington D.C. to be my true and lawful Agent and Attorney, to prosecute the Claim of my late Father Abraham Fairchild & of his Widow (my mother) Sarah Fairchild late pensioners of the U.S. for any amount of Revolutionary Pension, or Increase of Pension, that may be due; and I hereby authorize my said Agent to examine all the papers and documents of every description, in relation to said claim, that may be on file in the Departments at Washington City, or elsewhere; to file any additional evidence or arguments that can be obtained; and to receive the Certificate which may be issued for said Claim, which Certificate I wish made payable to the surviving children of said deceased pensioners; to appoint one or more substitutes under him for the purposes herein expressed; and to do all things that I might or could do were I personally present. Hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said Attorney and Agent shall lawfully do in the premises.
WITNESS my hand and Seal this 9 th day May , A. D., 1851.
Signed and Sealed in the presence of John A. Heel.
John Fairchild [SEAL.]
STATE OF New Jersey } ss: COUNTY OF Morris }
On this Ninth day of May A. D. 1851, before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, personally appeared John Fairchild and acknowledged the foregoing Power of Attorney to be his act and deed, for the purposes therein mentioned.
In testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand and seal, the day and year aforesaid.
Robert T. Wilson J. Peace. [SEAL.]

Claims of Abraham and  Fairchild deceased Act of June 7 th 1832 and July 4 th 1836
STATE OF New Jersey COUNTY OF Morris } ss:
Be it known, that on this ninth day of May , A. D. eighteen hundred and fifty-one, before the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared John Fairchild — a resident of Hanover in said County, and made oath according to law that — he is the son of Abraham  Fairchild deceased and of his late Widow Phebe Fairchild dec d
who was an Revolutionary Pensioner under the Act of June 7 th 1832 and July 4 th 1836
at the rate of _____ Dollars per annum; that he has been informed that the said Pension ought to be increased; that he is directly interested as a claimant in said Pension, and makes this affidavit to be filed with such additional evidence and arguments as my Agent may use in prosecuting said claim.
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid. before me, Robert T. Wilson J. Peace.
John Fairchild
I, Robert T. Wilson Justice of the Peace, do hereby certify that John Fairchild who has executed the foregoing affidavit before me, is a respectable resident of this County, and is, I believe, directly interested in said claim as therein set forth.
Robert T. Wilson J. Peace.
I, Abut H. Stanborough Clerk of the _____ Court in the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that Robert T. Wilson before whom the foregoing affidavit was executed, was, at the date of the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly authorized by law to administer oaths; and his name thereunto sub- scribed, appears to me to be his usual signatures.
In testimony whereof, I hereunto subscribe my name and affix the County Seal, this Ninth day of May — A. D. 1851.
[COUNTY SEAL.]
Abut H. Stanborough Clerk.

Rev.
WIDOW, &c.
1
File No.
787
Phoebe Fairchild
Widow
Abraham Fairchild
Adjut. Prov. War.
Act:
July 4, 1836.
Index:—Vol.
A
Page
226
[Arrangement of 1870.]
✓

9005
New Jersey Abraham Fairchild deceased
of Hanover in the State of N.J. who was a Private  corporal in the Company commanded by Captain Adjutant  Adjutant of the Regiment commanded by Colonel  Colonel in the Revolution line for { 10 mo. 14 days Rec. & 4 mo. Corp. Arty 8 & Sgt Arty 1 mo. 16 days Adft.
Inscribed on the Roll of Trenton at the rate of $23 Dollars 54 Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831. To 4 July 1843 when he died.
Certificate of Pension issued the 5 th day of Decr 1857 and sent to D. D. Addison
Arrears to the 4th of Present
Semi-annual allowance ending
Since from Jan. 86
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by Weightman Clerk, Book E. 2 Vol. 3 Page 129
E. 3 111

Increase,
Abraham Fairchild dec. N. J.
Act 7 June 1832.
10 Mo 14 Dp Pri. 34.88 4 Mo 6 or P. Ant c 18.00 8 " Serg t do - 40.00 1 Mo 16 Dp Adjt. 30.66 $123.54
per An: to the 4 July '43 when he died. Former paynts at the rate of $113.22 per An to be de- -ducted. Payable to John, Solomon, & Ezra Fairchild, Matilda Sayre, Electra King & Amelia Shafer only children
D. D. Addison Present.

V
5990
Phebe Fairchild
N.J.
Suspended
let to Lewis Bonditch May 21 '44 " to doct. A. Bonditch July 8 '44 " " " same Jan 9 th 1845 " same March 31. '45 " same June 8 th '45 " same June 11 th 45. tw!
Act July 4 36

42 57
New Jersey
N.J. Serv
Mrs. Sarah Fairchild was the widow of Abraham Fairchild who died on the 4 July 1843 of Morris in the State of N.J. who was a Corporal in the Company commanded by Captain Adams of the Regt commanded by Col ... in the ... line for { 10 mo: 24 days priv; 4 mo: 10 days Corporal; 8 " 19 d 1 mo 16 day Captain
Inscribed on the Roll of Trenton at the rate of 123 Dollars 54 Cents per annum, to commence on the March 13 July 1843, & July 1843 November 1846.
Certificate of Pension issued the 5th day 1837 and sent to D. Addison
Answers to the 4th of Present . Semi-annual allowance ending
Paid from $113.22
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the 33 }
Recorded by Lightman Book 1 Vol. 2 , Page 364
C. 1.140

Oct. 29. 1846
Rev. Samuel M c Farland Commissary of Missions Department Washington
Mr. Fairchild N. J. Rd. Act 36 4257.
James

Morris Town, N. J. Oct. 22 d . '46.
Sir,
Whilst in Washington last April & May, I rec d . from the N. J. Secy. of State (Dr. McChesney) some additional record proof, of the service of Abraham Fairchild, whose widow's claim had been previously admitted at the smallest rate of Pension. This case had been included with 2 or 3 others, to be submitted to the Secy. of War, for his opinion. But after receiving the communication from Dr. McChesney, I deemed it proper to place this document before you, thinking it might probably satisfy you of the propriety of reversing your former decision.
The paper was handed by me to yourself personally, in your office, without any letter, verbally requesting your perusal at convenience. I left the City before you found leisure to examine it, & have not yet rec d . from you any notice of it whatever. I also requested your attention at the same time, to some Abstracts from the Paymaster's acct s . showing large sums paid to Officers of Militia. (Genl. Wind, Col. Seely & others) under whom Fairchild served, & at periods when Fairchild's services were alleged to have been rendered. This latter document I had previously enclosed to you from this place.
I presume my verbal request was crowded from memory by more urgent duties, & before now, is entirely forgotten. You will however find both Documents, & I respectfully solicit your examination of them, & that you will inform me the result.
Sincerely & respectfully,
Your ob dt . serv t . &c.
Lewis Condict
Col. Edwards Commission of Pensions.

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 Jan. 24 108. 4 4 24 \overline{) 432} \text{ ( } 18. \text{} 24 192 192 6 \overline{) 108} 18  Edwards Engt Pennsylvania of Union Point. 

Washington, Nov. 17 th 1845
Col. Edwards, Commissioner of Pension.
Sir,
The case of Phebe Fairchild, widow of Abraham F. is one contained in my list of Appeals, now on the table of Doctor Crump, Chief Clerk, for his Report.
Since its last examination in your Office, some further proof has been obtained, & upon which you have made no decision, so far as I know.
If I mistake not, the additional testimony now alluded to, was laid before you in May last. Upon reflection, I believe it proper to withdraw this claim from the list of Appeals, until your decision shall be made in regard to the whole evidence in proof of the husband's service, which perhaps may render it altogether unnecessary to trouble the Secretary with it — unless possibly upon one point viz: — how far the former decision of Secy. G. establishes the amt. of service & grade of the husband, in deciding the quantum of the widow's pension.
With your concurrence, I agree to waive the whole claim, till I shall know your decision; when perhaps even the decision of Secy. G. may be of no importance.
Very respectfully,
Your obt. servt.
Lewis Conduit.

June 9 th 1845
[Handwritten signature]
James A. Paterson Esq.
Commissary of Pensions
Washington.

Jan 27 1875
James L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington.

Morris Town N. J. June 5 th '45.
Sir,
The principal object of my letter of 29 th ultimo, was to learn whether or not the deposition of John Lock, taken a long time after the Declaration of Phoebe Fairchild had been sent to your Office, had been rec d . by you? From your entire silence respecting it, I feared it had not been rec d . in the Office - or perhaps had not been placed with her papers.
The deposition of Simon Van Eps you have rec d . subsequently to Lock's, & have alluded to it particularly.
Now if Lock's is on the file, I need not trouble myself further: but if not, I must search for it - or endeavour to find him if living, because his testimony is believed to be relevant & important, having served with Fairchild one year, in the Artillery.
I am not aware that the enquiry is in any respect improper, nor do I suppose you withheld the answer designedly: it has probably been overlooked, in the hurry of reply. I regret the enquiry, tho' very unwilling to trouble you again with it.
With great respect
Your ob t serv t .
Lewis Condit.
Col. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions.

Increase
Phoebe Fairchild dec d wid. of Abraham, N.J.
Act 4 July 1835.
10 Mo 14 Ds p r iv. 34.88 4 mo coupl Act. 18.00 8 Mo. S r g t do - 40.00 1 Mo 16 Ds A r g t . 30.66 $123.54
Per An from 4 July '43 the day of her husband's death to 24 Nov '46 when she died.
De d on former pay m ts at The rate of $113.22 per An: Payable to John, Solomon, and Ezra Fairchild, Matilda Sayre, Electa King & Amelia Shaper, only children.
D. D. Addison. Present.

N. Lenny. Pension claim of Phoebe Fairchild - widow of Abraham Fairchild. Law of 1836.

Col. J. L. Edwards. Commissioner of Pensions
Sir,
Allow me to ask your attention to the claim of Phoebe, widow of Abraham Fairchild, under the act of July 36.
Her husband was a pensioner under the act of 1832, admitted by special order of Secretary Cope. In your letter of July 8. '44. it is stated, that "no satisfactory evidence had been adduced by the husband, either of the grade , or service ".
Objections to the evidence of grade & service had no doubt been raised against the husband's claim in 1832 - yet, for reasons deemed good by the Secy. the pension was allowed - & I could most respectfully enquire, whether that his decision is not conclusive ? The records at Trenton may show money paid the officer , under whom the husband served - but the names of the privates & subalterns do not appear.
A part for Fairchild's name in Levin's Abstract of Pay rolls has been made & is vain . I found alive, an aged pensioner of 1818, (John Lock) who testifies to the service of Fairchild in Veil's & Doughty's Co. of Artillery for a year, as Sergeant , & afterwards in Militia service , which affidavit I believe I submitted to you.
Mary Tuttle also states that her husband, Capt. Timothy Tuttle & Fairchild who were close neighbours, started together on the claim of the root of the Penn. line in 81. Their depositions go to sustain the Equity of Secy. Cope's decision, altho' that of itself , would seem to me, conclusive .
The old woman yet lives - extremely poor - an entire charge on her children - & feels her poverty & her dependence. May I not hope for your examination personally of the merits of the claim, before I leave the city!
Very respectfully
Your obt. servt.
Levin Bondet
Washington 23 d Nov. 1844.

July 15 44
Com
Ann Hanchett
and
James L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Washington.

July 15 44
Can
Mrs. Hanchett
and Anna L. Edwards Esq.
Commission of Review War Department Washington.

Morris Town N.J. July 11 th '44.
Dear Sir,
I have rec d . yours of the 8 th objecting to the sufficiency of the testimony on which the Pension of Abraham Fairchild was allowed, & requiring further proof thereof, before the claim of his widow can be admitted.
It must be apparent, that the oral testimony of living witnesses, in 99 cases of 100 at this late day - is out of the question. They have gone to the grave in that proportion, of all whom service began in '76, as did that of Fairchild.
This objection if raised ag st  his claim in 1832, perhaps might have been objected by the order of his com d er. It was not made then - & it appears to me, that to refuse her claim, now if the marriage be admitted, is a hardship - if not a rejection of the claim. Do not misinterpret my meaning however, as implying any censure. I appreciate the purity, intelligence & the firmness, which presides in the Pension Bureau - whilst in some cases I may honestly entertain the opinion that a rigid adherence to rules & forms, excludes equity.
I have an impression (from memory only) that Fairchild's case was originally allowed, with several others, by Secretary Poy. - If so - should not the widow's claim be considered as merged in his decision! Had it been allowed by a Chief Clerk in one of your Divisions, & an error detected now in your own examination; it would be perfectly competent for your decision to overrule that of your Inferior.
But if the Chief of the War Department has admitted the service, is it not final & conclusive!
Again - you speak of him as a Warranted Staff Officer in the Artillery of New Jersey Militia . His service as Sgt t of Artillery was in Veil's b o . afterwards Doughty's c o . which I think was of the  Army proper & not of the Militia .
After his term of service in this c o . expired, he performed Militia duties under Seely & others; & probably the Seely's officer at Trenton may show large sums for Seely - but the names of those who composed his reg t or battalion, will in no case appear.
Will the proof of service in Seely's reg t at times when service is alleged by Fairchild, be admitted as important, in sustaining his claim! I know it exists at Trenton, but Fairchild's name, nor the name of any subaltern or private in Seely's corps, does not appear. If it be entirely useless & unsearchable, the poverty of the widow is an insurmountable objection to seeking it. Please let me hear from you.
Very respectfully,
Your obt. serv t .
Lewis Condict
Col. G. Edwards, Commt. of Pensions.

Hulda Fairchild do:
N.J.
Act of July 30
increase
  10 mo. 14 ds  pri.  34.88    4 - -  corp. act.  18. -    8 - -  sur. do.  40 -    1. 16 adf c   20.33     $113.22  
Deduct what has been paid -
from 4 July 43 to 24 Nov. 46 when she died -
To John - Solomon Ezra Fairchild Matilda Sayre - Eliza the King & Amelia Sayre only children
Dr Lewis Condict Morrilltown

James L. Edwards Esq.
Commission of Pension.

Morris Town N. J. Jan. 27 th 45.
Sir,
In the case of Miss Fairchild, widow of Abraham Fairchild late a pensioner under the act of 1832 (she claiming under the act of 36-) you have the deposition of John Lock, who served in the same Artillery co. (Keil's - afterwards Doughty's) This deposition is not noticed in your letter of the 2 nd inst. & I am induced to believe you have overlooked it. I either left it with you when at the office the last week in Nov. - or sent it as soon as I returned home.
I herewith enclose the deposition of Simon Van Eps, of Pompton Plains, relating to Fairchild's service. They strongly corroborate & confirm the allegations of Fairchild. & I trust will satisfy you of the equity of his widow's claim. I know of no other testimony - his connection having from the debt of nature. The poverty & age of the widow, urge her friends to press me for the relief which they consider her entitled to receive.
Very respectfully
Your obt. servt.
Levi Condit.
Col. Edwards supervisor of Pensions.

Washington May 22 nd 1834
Dear Sir,
I enclose herewith a power of Attorney and application for an increase of Pension in the case of Phebe Fairchild who was a Pensioner under the act of 1836, on the Roll of the State of New Jersey, and have respectfully to request an early examination of the same
I am very respectfully Your most obedient Servt. N. W. Addison
S. B. Meath Esq.

Jan 10 - 57 Lot 4 July 36. N. Jersey
Jan 10 1857
Respecting Phoebe
Fairchild
M. D. & J. M.
Alex. Rapp
Washington
G. Heath Ky.
Com. of Pensions
Washington

Jan 10-57 N. Jersey Act 4 Feb 56.
Jan 10 1857
Respecting Phoebe
Fairchild
M c James
Alma Rapp
Washington
C. Heath Esq. Com. ee of Pensions Washington

Washington Jan y 2. 1857.
Genl. E. Heath Genl Com d of Pension In
Some months back. Doct. Lewis Bondot of New Jersey, enclosed me your letter to him of Dec r 8. 1846 in the case of Mr Peter Fairchild. Under an act 4 July 1836. at the rate of $100 p annum. Her husband received the act 7 June 1837. and was pensioned at $118. 86 a year. I was instructed by the Doct. to make application for the widow for an increase of her pension equal to the amount her husband rec d . but having no evidence of service failed to make application. Under the late decision, upon the joint resolution of 1 July 1849, she is now entitled to a pension at the rate of $118. 86
May I request a certificate be signed accordingly.
I remain your most respectfully Alex. Ray

Hebe Fairchild, widow of Abr m Fairchild. Payment to be made August 2 nd 1845. at Trenton N.J. $20. per an. by P. Dickinson Esq. from 4 th July, '43. Agent for paying Pen- Act of July 4 th 36. sioners, in the Agency of
New Jersey
1. 16 adf t 8 - Sept Anti 4 - Sept 10. 14 per Anti
Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book 6 Vol. 1 Page 146
Geo. C. Ames Clerk.

WAR DEPARTMENT.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIM.
I certify that, in conformity with the 3d section of the law of the United States, of the 4th of July, 1836, Phebe Fairchild of Morris Co. widow of Abraham Fairchild who was a Private in the Revolution
is entitled to receive Twenty One Hundred dollars and _____ cents per annum, during the time she may remain unmarried, commencing on the 4 th day of July 1845 and payable semi-annually on the 4th of March and 4th of September.
Given at the War Office of the United States, this SECOND day of August one thousand eight hundred and forty-five
Geo. L. Marcy
Secretary of War.
Examined and Countersigned.
J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions.

Jan 14/47
Recd of Rich Lander
Feb 1847
Sept 1 Edward Ely Commission of Pensions Washington.

Jan 14/47
Recd Paid
Dear Sir
My dear James L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington.

Morris Town N.J. Jan. 7 th 1847.
Sir,
Since the date of my last letter to you, I have heard of the death of Phebe Fairchild, widow of Abraham Fairchild.
She died, as I understand on the 24 th Nov. whilst I was in Washington - leaving 6 children as I am told, some of them in Wisconsin.
William Sayre, husband of her eldest daughter, is Executor named in her will, as will probably be certified by the probate papers in a few days.
Supposing that the fact of her death might induce you to change the form of the certificate, if not already issued, I have deemed it right to apprise you of it.
Very respectfully
Your obedt. servt.
Levi Condit
Col. Jas. L. Edwards Commissioner of Pension.

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J. L. Smith Esq. Comptroller of Prisons.

J. L. Edwards Esq
Commission of Pensions.
26. 30. 40 40 26 1200 4 104  160 138  1 3
160  156 4  20  \frac{1}{5}
88. 4000 (46 352  480  428 16 13  4 24 12 16

Morris Town N. J. Oct. 6 th 43.
St. Sir
Herewith you will receive 2 declarations for Pensions -
viz: one of Phoebe Fairchild widow of Abraham Fairchild, a Pensioner under the act of June 7 th 32, who claims under the law of July 4/36 - the other, of Phoebe Allen, formerly widow of Reuben Price, who was a Pensioner under the act of 1818, & his widow, now the widow Allen, claims under the law of March 3 rd 1843.
Please notify me the result of your examination.
Very respectfully,
Your ob. Servt. &c:
Louis Bonar
Col: Edwards, Commr. of Pensions.

Brief in the case of Abraham Fairchild dec? County and State of New Jersey act 7 June '32.
Claim, ("original," or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, ( if original. )
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
This claim has been allowed for 10 months 14 days private - $34.88. 4 Mo: Corp: Artillery $18. 8 Mo: Sergt Art $40. and 1 Mo. 16 day Adjt $20.33¢. Making in all $113.22¢. The proper pay for 1 Mo: 16 dys as Adjt is $30.66. I therefore increase it to that amt. which is $10.33¢ per An: increase.
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
The widow the same under act 4 July '36 from 4 th July '43 the date of the husband's death, to 24 Nov '48 when she died.
Name and residence of Agent.
L. L. Addison Present,
Kirby Examining Clerk.

Col. Edwards,
Commission of Pensions
Washington.
Col: Edwards Commission of Pensions
Dear General:
You are just
the representative

Very respectfully &c:
Your ob. servt.
Louis Pondit.
Col: Edwards Commisioner of Pensions.
Washington.
Commissioner of Pensions
Col: Edwards,

Morris Town, N. J. Jan'y 19 th 1847.
Sir,
Herrwith you will receive from the Surrogate's Office, evidence of the time of Phoebe Fairchild's death, (24 th Nov. '46. whilst I was in Washington) - the names &c. of her children - together with her certificate, that Tittus testimony have been granted to William Sayer, her Ex h -
In your letter of 13 th inst. you state, that the Certificate of Phoebe Fairchild, which I left on D r Cummins table, "is not found".
I had reference to the new certificate, just then issued & signed, allowing to her $100. pr. an. for her service as Sgt. of Artillery & as Private of Inf y . -
I remarked to the D r that the new testimony, as Adjutant , would certainly add to the allowance, & suggested that it might as well be deferred till that testimony should be decided upon. The D r concurred, & I did not take the certificate from his table. The old certificate, for $20. is at the Trenton Agency, & as I expect to go there on the 21 st I shall take this package with me, & include the old certificate with the papers first above mentioned. -
As to the duration of Fairchild's service as Adjutant, we will agree - "that the husband knows his own service better  better than any one else".
If you have allowed all that he claimed as Adjutant, I shall be content: & if you will allow my friend Mr. Miller of the Senate, to see the husband's declaration on that point - agreeing with your estimate thereof, I am persuaded the widow's friends will also be satisfied.
As the old certificate is now given up, I suppose the new one will be so shaped, as to include the small sum accruing from 4 th Sept. '46. to her death.

Comm. directs that no way that the claim has been secured with the claim before the department and is in dispute.
Col. J. S. Edwards
Consumption of Steam.

Morris Town, 29 th May '45.
Sir,
The widow of Abraham Fairchild, yet living, is very important respecting her claim for a pension under the act of 1836. She has this day sent her son in here to enquire of me, why her claim is not allowed, inasmuch as her husband died a pensioner, & her marriage to him been admitted. I have read to him your last letter on the subject, which are far from being satisfactory, as you may suppose.
You will pardon me I hope for this intrusion, as I do not intend to weary your patience by an argument - knowing you to be as is often said, a matter of fact man & not a declaimer. My object is to enquire in regard to a fact in this case.
In looking over three letters to day, I see objections stated to the deposition of Simon Van Eps - but no allusion whatever in any of them to a deposition of John Lock, a pensioner, who belonged to the same Artillery co. with Fairchild in 76.
When at your office in Nov r . last, I solicited a re-examination of this widow's case, with the deposition of Lock as add l evidence in its support. - Your duties at that time, calling you to complete your annual report - prevented its examination whilst I was there.
On the 2 d . January '45, you wrote me on the claim generally, making no allusion however to Lock's testimony. On the 31 st . March '45. you state objections to Van Eps' deposition - viz: as "vague recollections of seeing Fairchild at various times & places, acting as a soldier, without specifying the length of time" &c. - Nothing is said in this, of Lock's affid t . nor in any letter in my possession - & I apprehend you have not examined it - as it was strongly corroborative of Fairchild's Declaration & service. May I enquire whether or not you have perused it - or is it mislaid - being a single & loose paper - & taken some time in the summer or fall of 1844.
I believe I heretofore mentioned that a long & laborious search at Trenton, resulted in not finding Fairchild's name on the State records - but that large sums of money were charged to officers under whom Fairchild alleges service at various periods. I inferred from your remarks, that the records must connect him with those payments, to avail his widow. I was therefore reluctant to tax you with a perusal of the abstract. I will however send it, or take it if under these circumstances you shall think it can shed some light on this claim - which I know has strong equitable merit on its side, as regards service.
Inasmuch as it was not by your own personal adjudication that his pension was allowed, perhaps it may best accord with your views of propriety, to refer his widow's claim also to the same tribunal.
With much respect
Your ob t . serv t . &c.
Lewis Bondick.
Col: J. L. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions.

Jan 6, 1847
Rev. Mr. [unclear] Dick Moulds
James L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington.
Jan 6

Jan 6. 1847
Rev. S. L. Jan  Edw  Fletcher Ingrid
21
James L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington.

Morris Town N. J. Jan y 29. 1847-
Sir,
Yours of Dec. 31 st is just at hand, stating the allowance made to Peter Fairchild - viz: "1 mo. 16 days as P te 8 mo. as S gt 4 as C apt in Artillery in 76 - & 10 mo. 14 days as private". It would seem that the depositions of Lock & Van Eps (perhaps some other) have not been estimated - altho' they testify to his service as Adjutant in Seely's Regiment, at sundry times & places.
You add "his certificate ought to be returned". The new one, which was made out & signed whilst I was lately in Washington, was by me left on the table of Dr. Crump, on a suggestion, that the Roll , might vary the amount. The first one, (for $20. p t an.) is at the Trenton agency, & I will obtain it the first opportunity & send it. Since my return home, I have not seen any of her friends nor the widows. They will be disappointed as to the time for which he is admitted as adjutant , the testimony of eye witnesses of that service, being overlooked or disregarded.
If it has been decided, that this testimony avails nothing - I will consent to receive for her a Certificate estimated according to your last letter - & leave for their future consideration, the propriety of an appeal - making this one enquiry - viz: Whilst you have always required record or documentary proof of the grade of an Officer - have you not admitted the depositions of eye witnesses & comrades, as competent, to show the fact of actual service ?
Very respectfully,
Your ob t serv t
Lewis Bondell
Col. Edwards, Commission of Pensions

May 5 1843
NJ
Abraham Fairchild Cornelius Voorhies
James J. Edwards Esq. Commission of Pension Washington.

May 5 th 1843
W. G.
Abraham Lincoln Cornelius Testhus
James L. Edwards Esq. Commissary of Pensions Washington.

Morristown, N. J. May 3 rd 1843.
Dear Sir,
Abraham Fairchild Esq. a Pensioner under the act of 1832, who "was a private, Corporal & Sergeant of Artillery & Adjutant" at the rate of $118.86 pr. an: called on me within a week desiring to enquire, whether a full allowance of all to which his service & rank in the Army entitled him, had been made to him?
The same enquiry is also made by the heir of Cornelius Voorhies dec d . a pensioner under the same act, serving in the Commissary Dept. whose annuity was about the same amount as Fairchild's.
They learn, that decisions have been made which seem to entitle them, as well as others, to an increase of pension, & urge me to a further investigation. * Knowing that you possess a knowledge of the correctness or incorrectness of such imputations, & a readiness to communicate all that is proper for me know in reference to allowances to Commissioned & Officers of Artillery, I take the liberty of asking the information.
I also enclose the Declaration of Mrs. Agnes McArthur, a Claimant under the Law of March 1843 - whose husband was a Commissioned Officer of Hussars. She claims also the full sum, to which Commissioned Officers are entitled, as well in reference to her former pension of $2000, as on the present.
Please inform the result of your examination in the 3 cases. Very respectfully
Your obedt. Servt. &c.
L. Bondit.
James L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions.
* The belief is, that all Commissaries , are entitled to $600. pr. an. if 2 years service has been performed.

Mar 25/47
Receipt of P. H. Hutchins,
James L. Edwards Compt. of Prison Washington
[Handwritten signature]

Morris Town N. J. March 23 d . '47.
Sir,
I rec d . on saturday last, the Pension certificate on the claim of Phoebe Fairchild, now dec d . - which is made payable to her 8 children, named in the certificate. This will under me as pay a Poun d of Att s from each, & they are dispersed - one in Ripaick - the most Northern B o of this State - one in the State of Wisconsin (if living) the others left remote. By reference to the papers relating to the widow's death, you will perceive that her Executor is William Sayre (the husband of one of the daughters) to whom the Surrogate issued letters Probate.
If consistent with rules - it would occasion less trouble & delay, & with less expense to the heirs, to authorize pay ment to the Ex or , under such instructions to the Pay Agent as may be proper. I saw the Ex or yesterday, & informed him that it would be necessary to obtain a poun d from all , unless the form of the certificate should be varied. It is his desire it should be done, & he is ready to follow your instructions & directions. I will return the certificate for this purpose, if you so direct.
By this Certif t : of $113.22. his service as Asst t is estimated at $73.22, which is less than the sum paid him by Col t . Seely, as by his rec t . on Seely's original return will appear. If I mistake not he was paid for that service $40.
There is also among the last papers, a certificate from the N. J. Sec y of State, of a balance due Fairchild for Militia service, as returned by the State Comm ee of Ex rs . 3. 6 - which should have entitled his widow to some addition.
It will be gratifying to the Ex or & the children, to see an estimate & allowance for his service, in the various grades &c.
Very respectfully,
Your obed t serv t . &c.
Levi Bondfield
Col t . J. L. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions

Feb. 18. 1847
Recd of H. L. Fairchild,
6
As to due
28 Jan 47
Q
Amis & Edward Esq.
Commission of Pension Washington

Morris Town N. J. Feby 15 th 1847
Sir,
Your favor of the 11 th was rec d . on Saturday. In it you intimate, that in former communication from the Department I had been informed, that Abraham Fairchild in his Declaration claimed but 5 weeks service as Adjutant. I quote from your letter of January 13/47 - viz:
"When you refer to the testimony of witness as to her husband's (A. Fairchild) service as Adjutant, you overlook the too general terms in which it is conveyed, & the declaration of her husband, who knew his own service better than any one else."
In this I can discover no period of that service, as fixed or limited by the husband, nor any "official operation by the Department" of what was claimed by the husband in his narrative. You do me injustice, in imputing doubts to me, of the correctness or authenticity of official statements made by the Pension Bureau. But not having seen the Declaration myself, nor rec d . from the Department, definite information as to the extent of the claim, I thought it not unreasonable to request that Mr. Miller might see it, to satisfy the heirs of Mr. Fairchild. And if in any of my communications, there be contained an expression which savors of doubt on my part of the "official operation of the Department," I retract it entirely - as never entertained by me.
I quote from yr. letter of 11 th inst. - viz: "It is repeated, that the husband's declaration on oath, is the most authentic narrative of his service; & having stated to you that he claimed 5 weeks as Adjutant (which is the service shown by the roll" &c. &c.:
I may infer from this, that he claims no more than 5 weeks, altho' such is not the language: nor does the roll filed by me, define the quantum of his service: it shows the whole no. of days service by 2 men of the same grade; & till now, I did not know, but that his narrative stated service as Adjutant at other periods than that mentioned contained in the roll.
"The certificate for $100. pr. an. was issued (as you state), on 2 nd August 1845, & forwarded to me at Morris town". There is some mistake on this point. Her certificate for $20. pr. an. I did receive about that time, & returned it to your office, a few weeks since.
Her certificate for $100. was shown to me by Dr. Gump about the last of Nov. or 1 st Dec. 46 not 45.
I remarked to the Dr. that as there would be proof exhibited of the service as Adjutant, varying the amount granted, the certificate it might be postponed for the present. He concurred in the suggestion. He said the certificate on his table it has not been in my possession at all. If you require my deposition of this fact, I am ready to make it - knowing it has not been in my possession, except at the Doctor's table.
I claim the privilege of making minutes : & think you will question the infallibility of your Clerk, who states, that a certificate (to Mrs. Fairchild) for

"for 100 $ per annum. was issued on 2. August 1845. & forwarded to you (L. G.) at Morris Town"
Very respectfully &c.
Your ob. servt.
Levi Condict
Col. Edwards. Commissioner of Pensions

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State of New Jersey, jr.
Be it known, that before me, Lewis Condict, one of the Masters in the Court of Chancery of said State, personally appeared, on the 16 th day of December, 1844, Simon Van dyke an aged man, to me well known many years, as a man of truth & entitled to belief, who being by me duly sworn according to Law, saith on his oath as follows, viz:
I am a native of Morris County, was born on Pompton plains on the 10 th March, 1755, now in my 90 th year - I have spent my whole life here. In the beginning of the war of the revolution, I belonged to Captain John Debevoe's company of Morris Co. Militia, & under his command was personally engaged in several skirmishes & battles. — I afterwards enlisted in Captain Jacob Arnold's company of Light Horsemen, formerly Kinnear's Troop, in which I continued through the war.
Our service in general was in small squads, of 4-5- or 6 horsemen - attached to a regiment or battalion of Infantry - to watch & report the movements of the enemy - to carry orders & dispatches from one post to another - to act as guards to superior Officers occasionally - & frequently as body guards to Governor Livingston, when riding from one part of the State to another.
The Troop seldom acted together as a body, except when the enemy's forces were concentrated & an engagement was expected. I was much employed as an Express rider, carrying Despatches to & from Genl. Washington - to West Point - Newburg - Albany - & back - through Pompton to Morris Town, Trenton, Easton, Newark & other places. I had previously known Abraham Fairchild of Morris County - who was born & brought up in the township adjoining that in which I was born. In the first of the war, he joined the Artillery - & after his enlistment off he performed Militia service under Captains Kitchel & Bates & others, in the Regiment of Colonel Seely. I remember Fairchild under Col. Seely, in an engagement with the British, at Elizabethtown in the early part of summer - the year not recollecting.
I saw him also in an engagement at the bridge at Agokanack, in the fall of 1779, in Seely's regiment, under General Winder - he was acting as an Adjutant under Seely, & dressed in the uniform of an Officer. In the spring of 1780 - there was a skirmish with the enemy at Connecticut Farms, when the enemy burnt the village & church, & killed the wife of Rev. Mr. Caton who was shot through a window. I was among the first who entered the house, where I saw her dead body. In a few weeks after this action (in June 1780) the enemy advanced to Springfield, where a fierce battle was fought - the enemy burning the church & village as they retreated. In both these engagements I recollect Abraham Fairchild as an Adjutant in Seely's Regiment, the principal part of our Troop being collected & under Arnold's command as Captain.
Simon Van dyke
Sworn & subscribed, the date before mentioned at Van dyke 's residence, Pompton, before me
Lewis Condict
M. 6. 6.

I, Samuel R. Gummere, Clerk of the Court of Chancery of the State of New Jersey, do hereby certify that David Pond, whose name is signed to the foregoing deposition, is now, and was, on the day of the date thereof, a master of the said Court, duly appointed and sworn, and as such authorized to administer oaths and affirmations, take acknowledgments &c. that the said signature is his proper handwriting; and that all his official acts are entitled to full faith and credit in said State.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court of Chancery, at Trenton, the twenty-fourth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty-five. (1845.)
Sam R Gummere

May 5, 1846
Proof of service of Silar bond, etc.

Receipts for Cash paid  years' interest on Notes given by the Commissioners of the several Counties for Militia Services.
   No. of Voucher. No. of Certif. Date. SIGNED BY. PAYABLE TO. Amount. 1 y's int.     459 May 11, 1784 Silas Benedict Abm. Harchild L. S. D. 1. 3. 6  
STATE OF NEW JERSEY:
I, CHARLES G. McCHESNEY, Secretary of State of the State of New Jersey, do hereby certify, that the foregoing is a true abstract from a Book, headed as above, as taken from, and compared with the original, now remaining in my office.—And I do further certify, that Silas Benedict was, by an Act, passed by the Legislature of this State, December 20, 1783, entitled "An Act to procure an estimate of the sums due to the Militia and Troops who have been raised for the defence of the frontiers of the State, and to provide for the settlement of the same," appointed a Commissioner for the County of Morris for the purpose of settling and adjusting the pay rolls of the Militia and Troops of this State, as aforesaid, and also for signing and delivering out to each and every person a note for the payment of what may be justly due.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office, at Trenton, in said State, this thirtieth day of April A. D. one thousand eight hundred and forty- Six
Charles G. McChesney Secretary of State.

Mar 24. 1825
286
To James L. Calhoun Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions.
Washington.

Morris Town March 21 st 1845.
Dear Sir,
The widow of Abraham Fairchild (Phoebe) & friends, are urgent & pressing for a decision in her case. She is a claimant under the act of July 1836, & her Declaration was sent to the office in Febr. '43. In a letter subsequently rec d . (not now before me) you intimated that a larger sum had been allowed her husband, than the testimony authorized, & more than could be granted her, altho' the allowance was granted by the Secretary. Since then the testimony of John Lock, an Artillerist in the same Co. with Fairchild, & well acquainted with him throughout the war, has been forwarded, supporting the allegations of Fairchild's Declaration. The deposition of Mary Tuttle was sent with the widow's declaration & tho' not an eye witness of his personal service, yet it is strongly corroborative, & entitled as such to due weight.
I know from your letter it has not been overlooked, but has been repeatedly the subject of your consideration. It has not however been either rejected or admitted; & the family think I have been remiss in my attention, & this is my apology for this note.
The widow & her children will think themselves aggrieved, unless the same is allowed to the widow as to the father.
Very respectfully
Your ob t . serv t . &c.
Levi Bondick.
Col. Edwards Comm ee . of Pensions.

Phoebe Fairchild.
In this case the service of the husband, & his grade as Sergeant of Artillery for about 11½ months have been admitted & computed by Dr. Cump. & a certificate made out for about $100. per an. His rank as Adj t is now admitted; & the point which remains is, the am t . of service in that grade. The document which establishes his rank shows a pay rate of $40. Amongst the documents of his own, & also of his widow's declaration, will be found sundry dispositions relating to this service - particularly Simon Van Eps & John Lock, (with his widow's declaration) Certified Abstracts from N. J. pay rolls, showing large sums for Col. J's regt. in various years, are referred to, as corroborative testimony.
A small indent was issued in Fairchild's name, for a bal: due him. Dr. Cump will oblige L. Bondict, with a letter, explaining the computation &c. He will call for it to morrow .

May 27 44
N.J.
Dorset
Miss Fanny Child
[Faint handwritten signature or mark]
Fanny L. Adams Esq. Commons Pleas War Department Washington

Morris Town N. J. May 24 th '44.
Sir,
Yours of 21 st is just rec d . relating to the claim of Phoebe, widow of Abraham Fairchild. You state - that the marriage Register of Rev. Jacob Green, should be submitted to a Court, & a certificate obtained of its genuineness, &c.
This will be difficult - & probably impracticable. It is not in the keeping of the Church authorities - but is in possession of a son of the Rev. Doctor Green, who claims it as his own, & will not permit it to go out of his own custody. In his old age he has become petulant & abusive to those who have lately asked permission to look at it, & in some instances of late, I am told he refused it altogether. Whether his object be, to extort or not, I cannot say. Does not the proof of marriage conform substantially to the published rules of your office! My impression is - that the extract from the record is in the same mode as others, which have been rec d . & admitted. Are you willing to retain it for further verification or proof of consistency? - Every thing required that is found attainable will be attempted by the chitown of this widow: & perhaps a Magistrate calling on Mr. Green might be permitted to see it & compare it with the copy. The Pastor of the Church will testify to its genuineness, if it has not been done. But I do not believe, that Mr. Green will either go himself with the Register before a Court, or permit it to be taken by any one. Please to advise me further on this point.
You are aware, as well as myself - that the Records in the Secy of State office of N. J. furnish no evidence of the service of individuals, whether private subalterns or company officers. The paymaster Books show monies paid at times to Commanders of Regiments & sometimes of Companies - for compensating the service of their respective corps - without specifying individuals composing those corps. Examining these books to show monies paid Fairchild - or to show the duration of his service, must be fruitless, as well as expensive. They may show monies paid to Colonel Drake, Capt. Kitchell & other officers, whilst Fairchild alleged himself in service under them. And if this kind of evidence will aid you in forming your judgment, please inform me, & I will obtain a certificate from the Secy accordingly.
Mr. Fairchild - if living, could probably point to evidence to satisfy your doubts, & I respectfully submit - whether, after resting since 1832 upon the testimony which pensioned the husband - it be not a hardship to require of his widow further evidence?
I will hope to hear further from you, before I request a search at Trenton.
Very respectfully
Your obt. serv t
Col. Edwards
Commission of Pensions.
Levi Condit

Yucate Chacabucan July 13/49
Dear J. L. Edwards
Sir
Please give me at your earliest convenience a copy of the Memoranda of Abraham Fairchild, B.S., made in 1832. I do not care about the former parts of it, all I want is the statement of his services , how long he states his service as Sergeant, how long as Adjutant, & how long as private.
Please send it by the first of the next week & oblige Yours
J. M. Miller

Phoebe Fairchild. N. Jersey

Pension Claim of Phebe Fairchild of N. Jersey, Law of 1836. The Commisioners have allowed a pension to the Applicant for (about) $26. to 30. The husband, Abraham Fairchild, under the act of 1832, was, by a decision of Secy. Says, allowed (about) $118. or $120. pr. an. & the widow claims an enlargement. The Commisioners objects, because there is no proof of grade or service , to authorize it. By the decision of the Secretary, the husband was admitted as "a private Sergeant of Artillery , & Adjutant ."
The sole foundation of the widows claim, is the rank & service of the husband. The same rank & service which admitted the husband, must govern the claim of his widow, throughout . And the main point submitted, most respectfully to the Hon ble . the Secretary of War, is this, viz: Is it competent for the Commisioners to annul & set aside the decision of the highest tribunal, as regards the only question in this case? So far as the facts of service & grade were settled by that decision, is not the decision conclusion in all cases dependent on the same service & grade ?
But for the sake of satisfying the Commisioners, search has been made for additional testimony, & the depositions of two respectable eye witnesses & comrades have been furnished, viz: Simon Van Eps & John Lock, with documentary proof that large sums of Money were paid at sundry times, for the services of the Regiment, in which Fairchild performed the duties of Adjutant - all of which are referred to the decision of the Secretary, to sustain the equity of this widows claim.
Washington April 28 th 1846.

Mr. Edwards will find two additional documents from the Official Records at Trenton N. J. rec d by L. Bondict since his arrival in this City, & handed to the Commissioners since the within statement was made. One, is evidence of Fairchild's Enlistment in Capt. Kelly's Artillery as a non commissioned Officer, for one year, & his actual service therein for 11 mos. & about a half.
The other voucher is for other service, stating a balance found due to Fairchild of (the sum will be seen on examining it) for which the Commissioners of Morris County gave his official certificate. She claims for this as military service , a pro rata allowance.
The widow claims allowance to the amount of both vouchers.
She claims also allowance for services by the husband in the Staff Dept., his grade having been admitted by General Cag. Secy of War in 1833.

Morris Town N. J. June 1845.
Sir,
Your last of the 11 th inst. stating that John Lock's deposition could not be found on file with the papers of Phebe Fairchild, (a claimant under the act of July 36,) induced me to re-examine all the papers I brought home from Washington in Nov. last & among them I found it, which till now I believed was left in your office.
I enclose it herein, together with an Abstract from Records at Trenton. Fairchild's name is not mentioned - but it shows large sums of money paid to Fairchild's superior Officers for Revolutionary service throughout the war - viz: to Col. Seely (first Capt. Seely) Captain Bates, Kitchell & others. Her husband in his declaration states service under Col. Drake. I refer you to an abstract of this kind now in your office, left there by me in 1833, showing payments at various periods to Col. Drake.
In addition to the evidence on which the husband (Abraham Fairchild's) claim was admitted in 1832 by Secy. Gays, you now have the depositions of Mary Tuttle, Simon Van Eps, John Lock & perhaps Luke Miller.
His year's service in 76 as Serjt. in Miles & Boughton's Artillery, is proven by his comrade Lock, now a pensioner. This service alone, I apprehend, entitles him at least, to all which the Secy. allowed. (Is not a Serjt. of Artillery pr. $10 or $12. pr. month?)
His rank as Adj t . was admitted by the Secy. & the pay probably is equal to that of a Lieut. - The duration of his service in the Inf ry . may be uncertain at this day. Lock & Van Eps testify to his service throughout the war, & as serving him in every year in the actual performance of duty as an Officer - believing him to be Adj t .
The last mention of his service is at Wool's of the Penn a . line (in 81?) He was in the engagements at Trenton - Princeton - Aquackanack - Connecticut farms, & Springfield. The Abstract shows Subj t reg t in service in every year, & perhaps every month in some of the years. Prof. strictly & technically legal, of the precise amt. of actual service, was never expected nor required by the Law of 1832 - nor under the rules & regulations of the War Depart t . for its execution. The testimony of his service, estimated & weighed by a Court of Equity, (I think) will equal at least, 2 years - viz: one as Serjt. of Artillery & one as Adj t . in Seely's reg t .
The long pendency of the claim - the impatience of the aged widow & her friends, must be my apology for asking your attention to it as early as your arduous duties will permit.
Very respectfully,
Your obt. serv t . &c.
Levi Condit.
Col. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions.

5890
New Jersey, Morris County
Declaration of Phoebe Fairchild, widow of Abraham Fairchild.
Law of July 4 th 1836.
adm t
12. Mo. Int st
12 - per
$100. from 4 July '43 the day of her hus- -bands death
Return to Lewis Condick.
Morris Town, New Jersey.

State of New Jersey, Morris County ss:
On this 25 th day of September, Anno Domini 1843. before the subscriber, a Justice of peace in & for the County aforesaid, personally came M rs . Mary Tuttle, an aged woman, personally well known to me as a woman of unexceptionable character & fully entitled to belief, who being by me duly sworn according to law on her oath saith as follows-viz:— I am now in the 83 d year of my age, a resident of Hanover township in which I have spent my life. I have been personally well acquainted with Abraham Fairchild, now dec d : & with his wife & family, from our youth upward, being all natives of Hanover & near neighbors to each other all our lives, living almost within gun-shot. Abraham Fairchild & his wife Phebe, now his widow, were married as I firmly believe, in the spring of the year, 1780, by Rev. Jacob Green, Minister of Hanover Church. They lived respectably & respected, as husband & wife, & raised a family of children now living with their families. My husband was Captain Timothy Tuttle, a revolutionary Officer, & was intimate with Abraham Fairchild, who also was an Officer of the Army as I then understood & believed.
My impression is, that he, the said Fairchild had resigned his commission in the Army & had married before the war ended. That when the enemy burnt Connecticut farms & Springfields in the spring 1780, he was married & living at home; of this I cannot speak positively. I remember the great alarm of the Country at that time; Springfields being within a few miles of Hanover. It is my belief he was then with his family, & joined with my husband in the measures of defense & marched off to repel the Enemy. Some months after, & probably in the winter or spring of 1781, my husband was called up in the night by an alarm that the Pennsylvania line had risen in arms against their officers whom they threatened to murder & had marched off from their encampment below Morristown, to join the enemy. Before my husband could dress himself & be ready to start, our neighbor Abraham Fairchild came in, in readiness to march against the Deviling troops, & he and my husband went off together, in haste, collecting the neighbors as they went. They returned from this expedition together having been absent on this duty & such others as were connected with the enemy, not less than two weeks. Phebe Fairchild remains the widow of Abraham Fairchild.
Mary Tuttle
Sworn & subscribed, the date above mentioned, before
Silas L. Condict J.P.

I, David B. Hurd, Clerk of Morris County New Jersey, hereby certify, that Edward Conditt Esq. before whom the within Declaration of Phoebe Hainard was taken & subscribed on the 29 th day of September 1843. is one of the Judges of the Superior Court of Common Pleas of said County, duly commissioned & authorized, & that the signature of his name thereto, ("Edward Conditt") is genuine. Also that Silas L. Conditt the Magistrate, before whom the annexed Deposition of Calvin Green & Mary Tuttle, was taken & subscribed, is a Justice of the peace in & for said County, & that the signature of his name thereto, ("Silas L. Conditt") is genuine. — Witness my signature & the seal of my office at Morristown, October 4 th . 1843.
David B Hurd

New Jersey, Morris County. Pension Claim of Phoebe Fairchild Law of July 4 th 1836.
Deposition of John Lock, to be filed with other papers of Phoebe Fairchild in Pension Office.
Return to Lewis Condict. Morris Town, New Jersey.

State of New Jersey Morris County ss.
Be it known, that on this 5 th day of June, Anno Domini 1844, before me, Lewis Condict, one of the Masters in the Court of Chancery of said State, personally appeared John Lock, now living in Chester, Morris County, New Jersey, a pensioner of the United States, aged ninety years, well known to me personally, & believed by me to be a man of truth & fair character - who having been by me duly sworn according to Law, on his oath saith as follows - viz: I was born in August, 1754 - served in the Army of the United States throughout the war of the revolution - enlisted in Captain Neil's Co. of Artillery in 1776 - & served in that Co. under Capt. Neil, Doughty & Thompson.
Capt. Neil was killed in the battle of Princeton, & John Doughty was appointed in his stead. Doughty was sometime afterwards appointed Brigade Major & Thompson succeeded to the command of the Co. I was well acquainted with Abraham Fairchild of Hanover, Morris County, who belonged to the same Artillery Co. & was a Sergeant in that Co. He joined said Co. about the same time with myself - I think a week or two after my enlistment, but did not continue in it through the war. He remained in the Artillery Co. not less than one year, as I believe - was in the engagement with the enemy at Princeton, in which Captain Neil was killed, & I believe at the battle of Trenton also.
When his term expired in the Co. of Artillery, he left us, & I often saw him afterwards under Colonel Seely's command, & he was an officer in that Regiment - his rank I do not know with certainty, but I believe he was an Adjutant. I always knew him when I met him, & know that I saw him engaged in performing military service, every year whilst the war continued, but cannot now particularize his duties. I remember him on duty at Somerset plains - at West Point & New Windsor, under Col. Seely. - I recollect him well at the Springfield battle, performing duties as an officer in uniform, I think an Adjutant. After the enemy retreated, he aided in carrying off the wounded - to farmers' houses - some to Chatham - some to Morris town. My Captain, (Thompson) was badly wounded by a cannon shot in both thighs - was carried to Chatham, where both limbs were taken off by the surgeons He soon died. Colonel Ford was our Brigadier General & was with the Captain till he died, & Abraham Fairchild was with him frequently, many of his old comrades remaining in the Co. - In the midst of the Pennsylvania line, a year or two after the Springfield battle, I again saw Fairchild with some New Jersey Militia, near Pluckemin, on the march to intercept the revolution. I soon afterwards at Chester, Morris County, at the deposition of John Lock, the date above mentioned.
Before me, Lewis Condict, M. C. C.
John Lock

Payment to be made at Trenton by P. Dickinson Agent for paying Pen- sioners, in the Agency of
New Jersey
Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book C. Vol. 5.
Page 140 by
H. H. Wood Clerk.
Duplicate.

WAR DEPARTMENT.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIM.
I certify that, in conformity with the 3d section of the law of the United States, of the 4th July, 1836, the pension of Chele Fairchild, dec d . of New Jersey — widow of Abraham Fairchild — who was pensioned at $100 per an. as Pri t & Sergt t , is increased as Pri t . lev. Sergt t & adjutant to  is entitled to receive One hundred & Thirteen dollars and Twenty Two cents per annum during the time she may remain unmarried, commencing on the 4th of March  July 18 44  43 , when she died, ending 24. November 1846, when she died;  payable semi-annually on the 4th of March and 4th of Sep-  tember. to John, Solomon & Ezra Fairchild Matilda Sayre, Electa King & Amelia Shaffer, only surviving children.
Given at the War Office of the United States, this 17 th day of March one thousand eight hundred and forty Seven.
Secretary of War.
Examined and } Countersigned. }
Commissioner of Pensions.
Duplicate.